Sociologist Dr. Kevin Park argues that increased diversity in corporate leadership leads to better financial performance, not just improved company culture.

4
reading

Which data would most directly support Park's financial claim?

A

Diverse companies receive positive media coverage

B

Many companies have diversity initiatives

C

Employees prefer diverse workplaces

D

Companies in the top quartile for executive diversity outperformed bottom-quartile companies by 35% in return on equity over five years

Correct Answer: D

Choice D is the best answer. Financial metric (ROE) + controlled comparison (top vs bottom quartile) proves the business case.

  1. Context clues: Park specifically claims "better financial performance."
  2. Evidence evaluation: 35% better ROE is a direct financial measure.
  3. Verify: Quartile comparison isolates diversity's effect on business outcomes.

💡 Strategy: Financial claims need standard financial metrics, not cultural benefits.